We went to the same gas station every week practicing strategic consumerism. I learned this from Bill Hybels and Mark Mittleburg in Becoming a Contagious Christian. The big idea is to shop at the same stores so that you can get to know the people who work there and build relationships for sharing the gospel.

Xavier was the clerk at the Exxon station we went to each week. He enjoyed watching my kids work through their decision-making process. We often made small talk and our conversations were always brief and pleasant.

This Exxon station was cater-corner from our church. One day Xavier, or X Man as I called him, showed up at the church and asked if he could speak to me. He was struggling with his family situation and wanted to know what to do to save his family. We talked for a while about the issues and options.

We discussed his need not merely for advice, but for a Savior. He gave his life to Christ in my office that day. He showed up on Wednesday night wearing his best suit ready to begin his new life in Christ. He brought his whole family on Sunday. I had the privilege of baptizing him and his sons together.

That is strategic consumerism.

What grocery store do you frequent? Do you go to the same checker every time? What dry cleaners do you use? Do they know you by name? Do you know theirs? What bank do you use? What are the names of the people who work there? What strategy for consumer evangelism can you develop within these circles of relationship?

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David Bowman provides Church Unique and Transformational Church consulting. This post originally appeared at Church Central.